If you’re dealing with an inheritance in Tenerife, one document tends to appear very early in the process.
It’s called a Nota Simple.
Put simply, it’s an extract from the Spanish Land Registry that shows the legal details of a property. Who owns it, whether there’s a mortgage attached, and if any legal issues exist.
Before an inheritance can move forward, this is usually one of the first documents people check.
What a Nota Simple Shows
A Nota Simple gives a clear snapshot of the property’s legal situation.
It normally includes:
- The current registered owner
- A description of the property, including size and location
- Any mortgages or financial charges
- Possible debts or legal claims
- Embargos or court orders, if any exist
Lawyers, notaries, heirs and estate agents all rely on this document to confirm everything is in order before moving ahead.
Why It Matters During an Inheritance
During an inheritance, the notary needs to confirm exactly what the deceased legally owned.
The Nota Simple provides that confirmation.
It also highlights anything that might cause delays, such as:
- An outstanding mortgage
- Debts linked to the property
- Incorrect ownership details
Spotting these early usually prevents bigger headaches later.
How to Get a Nota Simple
Requesting one is fairly straightforward.
There are three common options:
Online through the Land Registry website
Usually the quickest option. Most arrive within about 24 hours.
Through a lawyer or gestor
Professionals can request it instantly through the registry system.
In person at the Land Registry office
Possible if you’re local, though it’s rarely the fastest route.
To request it, you’ll normally need one of these:
- The property address
- The owner’s name
- The registry number
- The cadastral reference
How Much It Costs
A Nota Simple is inexpensive.
Most cost somewhere between €3 and €10, depending on how it’s requested.
What If Something Shows Up?
Occasionally the document reveals something unexpected.
Maybe a mortgage that’s still registered. An old debt. Or a detail on the title that doesn’t quite match reality.
If something appears, it usually needs sorting before the inheritance is completed or the property is sold.
Which is why requesting the Nota Simple early in the process is always sensible.
Most of the time the Nota Simple simply confirms that everything is exactly as expected.
But when something isn’t quite right, it’s far better to find out early.
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